End of the Road, Start of the Ride

Copper Harbor Trails Club

At the very tip of Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, where the road ends and Lake Superior stretches endlessly, the Copper Harbor Trails system provides 50+ miles of world-class IMBA Silver Level singletrack — and those miles keep growing. This tiny, remote town might be the last place you’d expect to find a mountain biking paradise, but its rugged cliffs, glacial topography, and unique conglomerate rock make it a rare gem in the Midwest.

Thanks to passionate volunteers, donors, and a close-knit trail community, every mile is maintained sustainably by the Copper Harbor Trails Club and open to all — free to ride. Hear from Adam Yeoman about how Copper Harbor balances adventure, access, and conservation in a truly one-of-a-kind location.

Trail Types at Copper Harbor

Copper Harbor's trail system offers a diverse range of mountain biking experiences, catering to all skill levels. Whether you're a novice rider or an experienced enthusiast, there's a trail for you. Here's an overview of the main trail types:

Cross-Country Trails

These trails are the backbone of Copper Harbor's biking network, featuring a mix of terrain that includes forested paths, ridgelines, and scenic overlooks. Designed primarily for endurance and exploration, they offer a variety of challenges suitable for intermediate riders. Notable trails include Keweenaw Point Trail, Highlands, Magic Carpet, Ma Maki, The Flow, and Chipmunk Run. These trails are multi-use, welcoming hikers, trail runners, and birdwatchers, making them perfect for those seeking a peaceful ride through nature.

Downhill & Uphill Trails

Copper Harbor’s trails offer the full mountain biking experience — from thrilling descents to scenic climbs. Downhill routes like Flo’Rion on East Bluff challenge riders with steep, technical terrain and rocky drop-offs, while purpose-built uphill trails such as Berry Picker provide a scenic climb up Brockway Mountain. Berry Picker, a Visit Keweenaw Destination Development Award winner, showcases sustainable trail design and connects seamlessly to the broader network, letting riders enjoy the thrill of the descent after a rewarding uphill journey.

Jump Trails

Copper Harbor boasts several jump trails that cater to riders eager to catch air and perfect their aerial maneuvers. From beginner-friendly lines to advanced jump zones, these trails offer a range of features:

• Daisy Dukes: A small-jump trail ideal for beginners and intermediates, featuring rollers and tight berms.
• Dueling Banjos: An advanced jump trail with side-by-side lines of large jumps and drops, designed for experienced riders seeking a challenge.
• Skills Zone: Located at East Bluff, this area includes a set of sessionable jumps and drops that increase in size, allowing riders to progress their skills at their own pace.
• Bluejay Picnic: Features small tabletops, fast berms, and a gentle climb back up Early Riser, offering a fun experience without extreme features.

Flow Trails

The heart of Copper Harbor's trail system lies in its flow trails—smooth, swooping paths designed for speed and rhythm. These trails are characterized by berms, rollers, and natural features that keep riders engaged and smiling. Most are geared toward intermediate riders, making them accessible yet exciting. Notable flow trails include The Flow, which is renowned for its fast, swoopy sections and breathtaking views.

Trail Seasonality & Tips

Spring & Summer: Trails open once the ground dries. Ideal for exploring beginner loops, flow trails, and challenging downhill runs. Warm months are perfect for rides, community events, and skills clinics.

Fall: Open through November 14, offering crisp air, colorful foliage, and quieter trails. Check conditions and updates directly from the Copper Harbor Trails Club.

Winter: Trails close for mountain biking but some groomed paths are great for cross-country skiing, fat tire biking, and snowshoeing — letting you enjoy Copper Harbor’s forests and Lake Superior's shorelines in peaceful solitude.
 

Annual Events & Clinics

The Copper Harbor Trails Club hosts a variety of events and clinics throughout the year, catering to mountain biking enthusiasts of all levels. For the most up-to-date information on event dates, visit our Events page! Here's a breakdown by season:

Spring (May–June)

• Ride the Keweenaw: A multi-day event featuring guided rides across the Keweenaw Peninsula, including Adventure Mine, Swedetown, and Michigan Tech Trails.
• Big Boy Clinic: A skills clinic designed for male riders looking to enhance their mountain biking abilities.

Summer (July–August)

• Women's Weekend: A supportive clinic for women riders of all levels, focusing on skill development and community building.
• All You Can East Bluffet: An endurance enduro event offering 6- and 12-hour options on the East Bluff trails.
• Art in the Park: An art show and fundraiser celebrating the trails and community.

Fall (September–October)

• Copper Harbor Trails Fest: A Labor Day weekend celebration featuring races, music, and community activities.
• Group Rides: Guided rides for intermediate to advanced riders, typically held on Thursday evenings.